It is mandatory, but only after one year of tenure with the same employer. Since this July, you haven’t completed one year of tenure, you will receive next July for 1 1/2 years, at the new rate.
Moshe
I am confused about eligibility for Havra’a payment. I started working in January 2014. Everyone received Havra’a payment on their July payslips except me. HR told me I am not eligible. I thought this was mandatory.